January is School Board Recognition Month and Copperas Cove board members were recognized Tuesday for devoting their time to support public education and serve Cove’s schools.

Dr. Joe Burns, Cove ISD superintendent, said the district benefits every day from the tireless work and countless hours contributed by school board members who volunteer their time.

“They generously give of themselves to ensure that decisions directly affecting our local schools are made by representatives of this community, people who are close to our schools and know our teachers, parents, and students,” Burns said. “It’s more important than ever before that the public shows support for public education.”

Students sang to the board members and presented videos, plants, pictures and cards.

“Our district benefits from the contributions of the dedicated efforts of these local citizens who truly care about our kids,” Burns said. “Serving as a crucial link between the community and classroom, this board is responsible for an annual budget of $77 million more than 8,200 students and 1,200 employees, and 11 campuses.”

School board members are President Joan Manning with 18 years of service, Vice President Bob Weiss with 10 years, Secretary Inez Faison with six years, Jim Copeland with 14 years, Mike Wilburn with six years, Doug Cook for three years and Dr. Karen Harrison for two years.